Sabah Dive Squad Club (Deus Diving Club) condemned irresponsible and unethical divers for harassing protected marine life.
This follows a viral video showing divers restraining a sea turtle and a whale shark, believed to be near Pulau Manukan.
The action represents a serious violation of marine conservation laws and ethical diving standards, said the club’s president, Sim Fui.
“Harassing, touching, or restraining marine animals—especially protected species like sea turtles and whale sharks—is not only unacceptable but also harmful to their well-being.
“Such actions cause unnecessary stress to marine life, disrupt natural behaviour, and damage the very ecosystem that makes Sabah’s waters a global diving treasure,” he said.
The club urged the authorities to conduct a thorough investigation, identify those involved, and take the necessary enforcement action.
The Sabah Wildlife Department has initiated an investigation and called on the individual who first posted the clip to come forward to provide information.
